This layered taco bake is a delicious fusion of flavors and textures that combines everything you love about tacos into one irresistible dish. It features layers of savory taco filling, soft tortillas, and melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this bake is easy to customize with your favorite taco toppings.
What makes this dish stand out is its versatility—you can make it as mild or spicy as you like, and it’s a great way to use up pantry staples like beans, corn, and tortillas. Serve it with a side of guacamole or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to please a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
• Family Favorite: A crowd-pleaser that everyone at the table will enjoy.
• Customizable Layers: Adjust the spiciness, toppings, and ingredients to suit your taste.
• Simple to Make: Easy enough for weeknights but impressive for gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Taco Filling:
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning mix
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 cup salsa
• A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the Layers:
• 6 large or 8 medium flour tortillas
• 3 cups Mexican blend cheese, shredded
For Topping:
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup sliced black olives
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Diced avocado or guacamole
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Taco Filling
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and bell pepper for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 6–8 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in taco seasoning, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and salsa. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add fresh cilantro, if desired, and remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Taco Bake
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Place one or two tortillas at the bottom of the dish to cover the base completely.
3. Spread a layer of taco filling over the tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
4. Repeat layers of tortillas, taco filling, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese.
Step 3: Bake the Taco Bake
1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve
1. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
2. Add toppings: sour cream, black olives, green onions, jalapeños, fresh cilantro, and diced avocado or guacamole.
3. Slice into squares and serve warm.
Tips:
• Make It Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add extra beans and vegetables.
• Spice It Up: Use spicy salsa or add chopped jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick.
• Tortilla Options: Corn tortillas work well as a gluten-free alternative.
Storage Options:
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
• Freezer: Assemble and freeze the taco bake (unbaked) for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes to the baking time.
• Meal Prep: Make the taco filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
